🏊 Water wins

Robert E. "Robbie" Stratton Jr.

Robert Eugene "Robbie" Stratton, Jr., 68, of Chillicothe, passed away unexpectedly at his residence on July 19, 2025. A 1974 graduate of Southeastern High School and U.S. Army veteran, Robbie worked as an electrician for B&P Electric and C&J Electric before retiring. He was an adventurous person who enjoyed dirt bike riding, paintball, parachuting, chess, and spending time in nature. Robbie is survived by his wife Linda, his father, two daughters, four grandchildren, siblings, and numerous friends and family who will celebrate his life on July 31, 2025, what would have been his 69th birthday.

Jerry Parker

Jerry Lee Parker, 85, of South Salem, Ohio, died on July 19, 2025, at the Chillicothe VA Medical Center. A U.S. Army veteran who served during the Cuban Missile Crisis, Parker retired from Candle-lite of Leesburg after 25 years as a production manager and later trained horses on his farm, which hosted various events including rodeos and the Mud Ninja Events. He was an active member of several organizations including the Knights of Columbus, the American Czechoslovakian Club, and the NRA. Parker is survived by two sons and five grandchildren, with a celebration of life planned for August 16 at the Murray-Fettro Funeral Home, followed by burial with military honors.

Mildred Tackett

Mildred (Jenkins) Tackett, born September 29, 1932, in Ross County, Ohio, passed away after a life dedicated to both family and career. She was married to William "Bill" Tackett for 55 years and together they raised six children, who gave them eleven grandchildren and twenty-six great-grandchildren. Professionally, Mildred served as an office manager and property and casualty insurance agent for 35 years, earning her Certified Insurance Councilor designation in 1980. She was an active member of Real Joy Community Fellowship and enjoyed family time, crocheting, reading, and watching baseball games of her grandsons and great-grandson.

David Louis Smalley

David Louis Smalley, 76, of Chillicothe, passed away at home on July 12th, 2025. He is survived by his sister Trudy, three children, five grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. An Elvis fan with a beautiful singing voice, David was passionate about Native American culture, building furniture and crafts, gardening, and operating his produce stand until his health declined. Known for his honesty, pride, and sense of humor, David loved spending time with his family and will be honored at a memorial service at Greenlawn Cemetery in Frankfort on July 26, 2025.

Bernice L "Bernie" Bowman

Bernice L. "Bernie" (Bush) Bowman, 86, of Chillicothe, passed away on July 18, 2025, at her residence following an extended illness. Born in 1938, she is survived by her five children, seventeen grandchildren, and numerous great and great-great grandchildren, as well as several siblings. Bernie was predeceased by her husband Gordon Bowman, her former husband Clarence Barnhart, a son, a fiancé, and other family members. She loved the Home Maker's club, pontoon boat rides, family gatherings, and spending time with her grandchildren.